California Assembly Bill AB476

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/25
• Refer: 2/24/25
• Report Pass: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/28/25
• Report Pass: 4/22/25
• Refer: 4/24/25
• Report Pass: 4/30/25
• Refer: 5/5/25
• Refer: 5/14/25
• Report Pass: 5/23/25
• Engrossed: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/4/25
• Refer: 6/18/25
• Report Pass: 6/19/25
• Refer: 6/19/25
• Report Pass: 7/7/25
• Refer: 7/7/25
• Report Pass: 7/15/25
• Refer: 7/16/25
• Refer: 8/18/25
• Report Pass: 8/29/25
• Enrolled: 9/12/25

Caption

Metal theft.

Impact

The bill brings significant changes to California's laws concerning the business practices of junk dealers and recyclers. It introduces additional documentation requirements for purchases and sales of scrap metal, including timestamps, transaction amounts, and employee identification. Moreover, it expands the list of materials that dealers are prohibited from possessing without proper certification. Such amendments are designed to strengthen law enforcement's ability to tackle metal theft and provide a clearer framework for legal compliance in the recycling industry. Overall, the bill facilitates better tracking of scrap metal transactions, which is crucial in preventing theft of public infrastructure.

Summary

Assembly Bill 476, introduced by Assembly Member Mark Gonzlez, aims to amend existing laws governing junk dealers and recyclers, specifically targeting metal theft. The bill seeks to enhance recordkeeping requirements and increase penalties for illegal possession of stolen items, including street lights and utility equipment. By mandating more detailed transaction records from junk dealers and introducing a higher maximum fine for violations, AB 476 intends to discourage theft and promote accountability within the scrap metal industry. This legislative development is seen as a measure to protect public property and deter criminal activities associated with metal theft.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding AB 476 appears to be supportive, particularly from law enforcement and public safety advocates. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward addressing the rising issue of metal theft that affects public property and safety. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential burden placed on junk dealers, particularly smaller businesses, which may be challenged by the increased recordkeeping requirements. The discussion reflects a balance between enhancing public safety and ensuring manageable regulations for industry stakeholders.

Contention

There are notable points of contention regarding the bill, especially concerning the financial implications for junk dealers and the practicality of stringent recordkeeping requirements. Critics may argue that while enhancing penalties is essential to deter theft, there should also be support mechanisms to assist dealers in complying with the new mandates. Additionally, the expansion of prohibited items to include street lights and other utility materials has raised discussions on how these changes will affect local governance and community relations with service providers. Thus, while AB 476 aims to address metal theft effectively, the implications for local businesses and communities need careful consideration.